Small Space Apartment Balcony Makeover for Under $2,200

Want to transform your small space into an outdoor oasis without overspending? We can help. Find inspiration from this budget-friendly balcony makeover we completed for under $2,200. 

The Challenge

The homeowners' living room is connected to the balcony via a sliding glass door, and their main goal was to extend their indoor space outside. The area was narrow—about 15 feet long and four feet deep. That's not wide enough for most dining sets, and although Adirondack and rocking chairs would have worked, the owners wanted something softer and cozier that blended with their indoor furnishings. 

The Furniture

The solution: deep seating furniture and coordinating accent tables. Sofas, loveseats, and sectionals were too big, but chairs and ottomans fit perfectly. Cushioned designs from our Vineyard Collection offered ample style and comfort in the compact space, and side tables from our Long Island Collection improved the functionality (and added a bit of flair).

(2) Vineyard Deep Seating Chairs in Black/Weathered Tweed: $479+

(2) Vineyard Ottomans in Black/Weathered Tweed: $299+

(2) Long Island 18″ Side Tables in Black: $69+

A pair of deep seating chairs bookended the space with two side tables styled nearby. Since the balcony had plenty of length, we incorporated coordinating ottomans in front of each seat. 

Furniture price (gross): $1,694

The Inspiration

We built the look around the pre-existing color palette and gorgeous views. The homeowners' balcony area featured deep greens and greys, and it overlooked a tree-lined pond and the lush landscape of their local golf course. 

Plants

We used large, leafy monsteras, fluffy ferns, and a few other medium and small plants in earth-toned pots to bring in natural elements for fresh color and a calm aesthetic.

Lights

Golden votives and vintage-inspired lanterns balanced out the cooler neutrals while lending warmth and extra light to the space.

Complementing Colors & Textures

For the furniture colors, we liked classic Black lumber paired with Weathered Tweed cushions. It offered a sleek yet serene look that blended well with the natural color scheme. The final step was pulling in natural blues and beiges with a long outdoor runner. Its softness contrasted nicely with the hard concrete floor and brought additional texture to the overall look. 

Estimated Decor Cost

Decor prices vary from store to store, so we made a list of all the items we used and the estimated cost for a rough idea of what you can expect to pay.

• (1) Monstera deliciosa in 14 in. round metal planter: ~$50
• (1) Boston fern in 16 in. round plastic planter: ~$60
• (1) Snake plant in 12 in. round plastic planter: ~$30
• (1) Rubber plant in 10 in. round ceramic planter: ~$40
• (1) Rubber plant in 10 in. round plastic planter: ~$30
• (1) Violas in 10 in. rectangle plastic planter: ~$20
• (1) 2-piece small succulent set in plastic planters: ~$12
• (1) 2-piece small herbs set in plastic planters: ~$15
• (1) 3 ft. x 10 ft. outdoor woven runner: ~$80
• (1) Brushed metal railway table lantern: ~$40
• (1) Round iron and glass table lantern: ~$25
• (1) 3-piece set of golden metal votives: ~$27

Estimated decor price (gross): $429

Final Look

The finished space felt like the perfect little getaway.

Small Space Decorating Tips

Upgrade your cozy outdoor area with these simple tips and tricks.

Versatile Tables

Small square accent tables can be styled separately or pushed together to form a makeshift coffee table. Since your storage space is likely limited, look for designs with extra shelves.

Multi-Use Ottoman

A cushioned ottoman can support more than your feet. Use it as additional seating or a place to balance a tray of appetizers.

Folding Furniture

If your balcony is a multipurpose space, go for folding furniture you can tuck away when you need more room for other activities. 

Plant Stands

Buy a few plant stands of differing heights and top them with tall potted horsetail reeds or boxwoods. By elevating your plants up off the floor, you'll trick your eye and give the appearance of more space. Go for low-key stands with simple lines so you don't add unwanted busyness to the room.

Hanging Plants

Use hanging baskets if your outdoor space is too small to hold potted plants. Suspended planters add interest and texture while creating an even cozier atmosphere. If you're into crafts and DIY projects, display pretty blooms in a homemade macrame hanger. (What's knot to love about that?)

Small Space Sets Under $1,500*

Level up your outdoor look with these space-saving designs.

Wave Collection 4-Piece Adirondack Chair Set  

$1,049+

Beautify your beachfront terrace with this Adirondack quartet. When you line these chairs up, the backrests depict a cresting ocean wave. 

Cottage 3-Piece Farmhouse Bar Set with Trestle Legs 

$1,295+

Alfresco living just got easier. This multipurpose bar set lets you cozy up for date night, take afternoon meetings outside, or enjoy a side of sunshine with your morning coffee. 

Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD Chinoiserie 3-Piece Farmhouse Counter Set with Trestle Legs

$1,395+

Brighten your balcony with this eye-catching counter set. Two arm chairs boast intricate latticework details that balance the table’s clean-lined serving space.

4-Piece Modern Studio Folding Adirondack Chair Conversation Set 

$1,049+

Big city vibes, small-space sensibilities. The Adirondacks’ slim and streamlined designs give you room to recline with friends, or they easily fold up when you need space to mix and mingle.  

Vineyard Side Chair 5-Piece Farmhouse Dining Set

$1,349+

An elegant dining set fit for small areas, the armless chairs leave you room to move, and you can push the square table against a wall or corner when you need space for after-meal activities.

*NOTE: Prices are subject to change and vary based on lumber and fabric colors. See individual product pages for complete pricing information.